Nizar Baraka: Youth Unemployment at 39.5% Shows Morocco’s Economic Crisis

Doha – Mounting economic challenges facing Morocco’s youth, including record-high unemployment rates and declining middle class mobility, were the focal point of a comprehensive critique of current social and economic conditions delivered recently by Istiqlal Party Secretary-General Nizar Baraka.

His remarks came during a national event commemorating the 81st anniversary of Morocco’s Independence Manifesto in Casablanca on January 11.

Recent statistics paint a concerning picture, according to Baraka, with youth unemployment reaching an unprecedented 39.5%, while overall unemployment stands at 21.3%, and women’s unemployment at 29.6%.

These figures represent what he characterized as “very high levels” that have emerged in recent years.

“We must say this with complete clarity and responsibility: our country’s youth have objective and legitimate reasons to feel anxious about the future and fears about uncertainty, which contributes to creating a complex, multi-dimensional crisis of confidence,” Baraka stated in his address.

The Istiqlal leader pointed to several concerning trends, including what he described as “the decline of the middle class due to high cost of living and deepening social disparities.”

He acknowledged this decline persists despite government efforts through health coverage, social support, wage increases, and income tax reductions.

The digital revolution presents both opportunities and threats, Baraka noted, particularly with the emergence of artificial intelligence.

While offering new prospects for development and socio-economic integration, it simultaneously widens the gap between Moroccan youth and their counterparts in developed nations, potentially threatening numerous current and future job positions.

Social media’s negative impact compounds these challenges, Baraka explained, citing the spread of misinformation, fake news, cyberbullying, and the promotion of negative lifestyle behaviors.

These factors generate feelings of frustration and failure among youth, while fostering confusion, despair, and pessimism.

Environmental concerns add another layer of complexity, with extreme natural phenomena such as drought, floods, and water scarcity due to climate change affecting youth resilience and vital living conditions for future generations.

These challenges are further complicated by the recent increase in epidemics and health crises, with their human, economic, and social implications.

Responding to these challenges, Baraka announced plans for an “advanced social contract” with the country’s youth. Throughout 2025, Istiqlal will conduct local, regional, and national youth consultations to develop comprehensive policy proposals.

“These objective causes for concern will not disappear on their own,” Baraka warned. “They will only dissipate if young people move from a zone of waiting to a zone of action and contribution in formulating solutions and alternatives.”

The proposed social contract aims to ensure equal access to quality healthcare and education, with particular attention to vulnerable groups in isolated areas.

It also outlines the expansion of second-chance schools, developing digital skills, creating decent job opportunities, and supporting youth projects and initiatives.

Key components of the proposed framework also include the integration through culture, sports, and arts, alongside guaranteed freedom of thought and expression.

In a concrete step toward youth engagement, Baraka declared 2025 as Istiqlal’s “Year of Volunteering,” calling for increased civic participation among party youth.

The party will also introduce an award to recognize young members who have demonstrated outstanding performance in local governance roles.

The event, themed “Youth: Builders of Today and Tomorrow,” drew party executive committee members, parliamentarians, and activists to Casablanca, which Baraka referenced as “the fortress of struggle and militancy” and birthplace of resistance figure Mohamed Zerktouni.